Colts' Robert Mathis: 'The pass rush is back in Indy'

Regardless of the scheme change, arguably the most pressing need for the Indianapolis Colts to address immediately is the pass rush, which was an aspect of their defense that was almost non-existent in 2017.

The Colts recorded just 25 sacks in 2017, which was the lowest amount since they recorded 21 sacks in 1993 (they also recorded 25 in 2006). With Frank Reich taking over as head coach and Matt Eberflus as defensive coordinator, the Colts are switching back to a 4-3 defense.

The franchise leader in sacks and current assistant coach Robert Mathis feels this change will bring back positive results in getting after the opposing quarterback.

“It’s about speed,” Mathis told Colts.com’s Matt Taylor. “Speed is No. 1 — first and foremost. And everybody, even the bigs in the middle — the D-tackles — everybody has to run, everybody has to have speed and quickness and good footwork.

“We’re back to the 4-3 — speed, get to the quarterback. Man, pass rush is back in Indy.”

Mathis knows a thing or two about rushing the passer but the Colts are coming off of their worst season in over 20 years statistically in terms of sacks, which means their is a lot of work to do.

That said, the group isn’t without its promise.

Jabaal Sheard led the team with only 5.5 sacks but he was constantly getting pressure. Those two aren’t interchangeable but he had a solid year nonetheless.

There is also the possibility the Colts draft NC State’s Bradley Chubb with the No. 6 overall pick if he is available in the 2018 NFL Draft, which would give them a solid duo on both sides at defensive end.

And while it remains to be seen how Henry Anderson comes back from his throat injury, he will be entering the final year of his rookie contract, which means he will likely be playing a bit more fire.

Colts fans will likely take the “believe it when they see it” approach, which is wise and it remains to be seen how much the pass rush will improve in the new four-man front.

One thing is for sure, though, the franchise leader in sacks is certainly excited about the change.